Vision OM founder Anne Decent says the group often has to hold ballots over who can go on trips as the popularity of activities has s

AN OTTERY St Mary group for the visually impaired has issued a plea for a bigger bus so more members can enjoy days out.

Vision OM founder Anne Decent says the group often has to hold ballots over who can go on trips as the popularity of activities has soared over the past decade, and some members are missing out.

The 20-plus strong group, which celebrated its 10th birthday last year, currently uses the valued Ottery Hospital League of Friends bus for outings that have included trips to East Devon coastal towns and even ten pin bowling in Exeter.

The group, which has a volunteer driver, hopes Herald readers can help find a larger bus that is wheelchair friendly.

"The League of Friends bus has 15 seats, but we often have 20 plus people when we go out and some of us can't come," said Anne, "sometimes we have to have a ballot." She added: "I've been to all the local coach services, there might be somebody out there who can help. We need a community bus, there's lots of organisations in the town for the over 60's, all sorts of groups who have to have transport."

Twenty-seven members of Vision OM enjoyed 10th anniversary celebrations last year.

Founder Anne, who is registered blind, befriended several visually impaired, elderly ladies when she moved to Ottery a decade ago.

Regular meetings then began in her home for the ladies to socialise and give each

other mutual support.

The group's size has increased ever since.